The council says it has received many complaints from residents saying how upsetting the noise from exploding fireworks is for babies, the elderly and animals.

A spokesperson said the idea is not to stop people enjoying fireworks, but to push for stricter controls for their use and sale.

You can join the debate by writing to Nicola Hayden at the Fireworks Topic Group, Hertfordshire County Council, County Hall, Pegs Lane, Hertford, SG13 8DF or send an e-mail to nicola.hayden@hertscc.gov.uk.

The issue has been debated in this site's forum and an e-mail has been sent to the county council drawing its attention to this.